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Congenital CMV Infection in Children

Disease caused by transplacental transmission of cytomegalovirus.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Congenital CMV Infection in Children?

Congenital CMV (cCMV) infection is the most common congenital infection worldwide; it is seen in approximately 0.5–1% of live births. Maternal primary infection or reinfection during pregnancy may transmit the virus to the fetus across the placenta.

Approximately 90% of infants are asymptomatic at birth, while symptomatic forms include microcephaly, intracranial calcifications, hepatosplenomegaly, petechiae and chorioretinitis. Sensorineural hearing loss can develop later in 10–15% of asymptomatic and 50% of symptomatic infants.

Diagnosis is made by virus isolation from saliva or urine PCR in the first 3 weeks. Symptomatic neurologically affected newborns are treated with oral valganciclovir for 6 months, which improves hearing and neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Symptoms

Petechiae and purpura
Hepatosplenomegaly
Microcephaly
Sensorineural hearing loss
Chorioretinitis
Jaundice
Low birth weight

Risk Factors

Primary CMV infection during pregnancy
Maternal seronegativity
Multiple parity
Crowded living conditions
Working with young children
Immunosuppression

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Petechiae and hepatosplenomegaly at birth
  • Microcephaly suspected on prenatal ultrasound
  • Newborn hearing screening failure
  • Maternal primary CMV infection
  • Intracranial calcifications
  • Postnatal growth retardation

Treatment Methods

01
Oral valganciclovir (6 months)
02
Hearing follow-up (until age 5)
03
Neurodevelopmental follow-up
04
Ophthalmologic follow-up
05
Maternal CMV avoidance counseling
06
Family hygiene education

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.